Even though this first episode feels more like a sanitized TV version of that scenario, it draws you in enough to make you continue wanting to see what happens next. If nothing else, there is something satisfying about seeing Sutherland as our president.

One episode into "Designated Survivor" may not convince "24" fans that their beloved Kiefer Sutherland is now a deskbound, rookie POTUS. But once you're over that hump, the show certainly makes a compelling case for its premise.

Kirkman, mild-mannered but firm, evenhanded but paternalistic to the women and children in his life, is a perfect role for Mr. Sutherland, and tuning in to see him save the country each week may be one of the new TV season's prime guilty pleasures.